Hastings-born entrepreneur Simon Fuller will receive a doctorate of letters from the university later this month.

Mr Fuller is widely credited with steering the media career of David Beckham and founding the British management firm that represents UK tennis No.1 Andy Murray, Formula 1’s Lewis Hamilton, and cycling’s Sir Bradley Wiggins.

The 54-year-old, who will receive the honour in recognition of his major contribution to business, entrepreneurship and philanthropy on Thursday July 31 at the Brighton Dome, is also famed for a long-running feud with fellow music business supremo Simon Cowell.

Also set to be recognised will be Alison Lapper MBE, will receive an honorary doctor of arts next Monday for her major contribution to the arts and as an ambassador for those with disabilities.

The disabled artist graduated with a first class honours degree in fine art at the University of Brighton in 1993 and reached national prominence in 2005 when a naked sculpture of her appeared on the fourth plinth in Trafalgar Square.

The university will also honour Anji Hunter who will receive a doctor of letters on Wednesday July 30 in recognition of her contributions to communications and public affairs management.

After graduating from the university in 1988 with a first in history and English she rose to become a key member in the New Labour movement as the director of government relations for Tony Blair.